Clothing

Not every dog needs clothing: breeds with dense undercoats such as Huskies, Kangals and Golden Retrievers are already well protected from the cold. But short-coated or slight dogs like Chihuahuas, Miniature Pinschers, Whippets and French Bulldogs, as well as puppies and seniors, lose heat quickly. On Gaziantep’s frosty winter mornings, a good coat turns a shivering walk into a routine your dog actually enjoys.

Which garment, when?

• **Coats and gilets:** Keep the body warm on cold, windy days; fleece-lined designs are the most popular.
• **Raincoats:** Light, waterproof fabric stops the coat getting soaked and keeps mud out of the house.
• **Jumpers:** A light layer for indoors and cool spring evenings.
• **Boots:** Protect paw pads on icy ground, from de-icing salt and from scorching summer tarmac.

The most important measurement is back length: measure from where the collar sits to the base of the tail, then check chest and neck girth. Clothing should not restrict movement or rub under the front legs, and for male dogs the belly should be cut so it does not get in the way when they wee.

When introducing clothing, start with short periods and reward calm behaviour. Reflective details improve visibility on dark winter evenings. Take wet clothing off as soon as you get home and let it dry, as damp fabric can irritate the skin.